To learn faster, key strategies include teaching others, taking regular breaks, taking handwritten notes, getting enough sleep, and varying study methods. Starting study sessions by defining purpose, using techniques like SQR3 (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review), and spaced repetition greatly boost learning speed and retention. Actively engaging with the material by self-explaining, asking questions, and teaching helps deepen understanding and recall. Reading around topics and mixing similar subjects (interleaving) create stronger memory connections.
Effective Techniques to Learn Faster
- Teach others or pretend to teach, which forces deeper processing of information.
- Take breaks every 30-50 minutes for 5-10 minutes to refresh the brain.
- Use handwritten notes rather than typing to enhance comprehension and retention.
- Take naps or sleep between study sessions to consolidate the learned material.
- Change study methods slightly in different sessions to improve mastery.
- Start each session by asking why you are learning and how you will use the knowledge.
- Apply the SQR3 method: Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review.
- Use spaced repetition to combat forgetting and build long-term memory.
Supporting Practices
- Read broadly around the topic for deeper understanding and to form connections.
- Teach others to test and consolidate your knowledge.
- Increase active effort during learning for stronger memory formation.
These approaches optimize brain function for quicker learning and better recall, making study time more effective and efficient.
